Concerns about the esplanade along the estuary of the Whangateau Harbour containing asbestos have been addressed by Auckland council. 

The 33.2-metre stretch of esplanade is right along the waterfront to the left of the Omaha boat ramp. The council has been aware of the presence of asbestos in the esplanade for the past six years, but it wasn't considered an issue until late last year when the asbestos became exposed. 

Mike Feather from Auckland Council has updated the Omaha community on the project to address the concerns about the Whangateau Harbour Esplanade Reserve. 

A close inspection to remove obvious fragments of asbestos on the surface was carried out, and soil samples to establish the stability of the material were taken.

A number of site visits by experts have been made and a report outlining how Council will manage this site both now and for the longer term is expected in the next few weeks.

In the meantime, Council has instructed their contractor not to mow within five metres of the sea wall and also to raise the height of mower blades. To help grass re-establish itself and minimise soil disturbance, Council is also fencing off a section of the reserve to isolate areas where there is little or no grass cover.